Pros
Can help with sleep
Can be used preventatively
Can treat allergies, motion sickness, nausea, and vomiting
- Chronic Care
- Allergies
- Antihistamines
Phenergan
Phenergan (promethazine) prescription available online
If you are suffering from allergies, insomnia, nausea, and vomiting related to certain conditions, such as motion sickness, Phenergan can help. Get a new prescription or refill of Phenergan from a board-certified doctor online.*
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Eases nausea and vomiting symptoms
Short-term insomnia treatment
Promotes relaxation and sleep
*Prescriptions are provided at the doctor’s discretion. Learn more about our controlled substances policy and how you can save up to 80% with our prescription discount card.
About Phenergan (promethazine)
Phenergan is considered a first-generation antihistamine and antiemetic that belongs to a group of medicines called phenothiazines, which functions by blocking histamine that the body produces during an allergic reaction.
It also acts on the brain directly to promote relaxation and changes the action of chemicals in the brain.
Like any antihistamine and antiemetic, this medication can only be used for treating allergies, nausea and vomiting. It is ineffective against asthma, pneumonia, and lower respiratory tract infections because it may cause slow or shallow breathing, i.e. fatal respiratory depression.
Some conditions that Phenergan is known to treat include insomnia and allergy. Phenergan is available only by prescription. It is available in a generic formulation as well as under different brand names, including Phenadoz and Promethegan.
Phenergan may be prescribed as tablets and liquid that you swallow and as a suppository for rectal use. It’s always important to follow the specific instructions on your prescription, as they can vary based on the formulation and dosage that you are prescribed.
If you are prescribed Phenergan, be sure to complete the full course of the phenothiazine unless your doctor or pharmacist specifically tells you to stop.
If you don’t complete your prescription, the phenothiazine may not fully treat your symptoms of allergy, insomnia, or nausea and vomiting related to conditions such as motion sickness.
Phenergan uses
There are three FDA-approved uses for Phenergan, i.e., promethazine hydrochloride, but it may also be used off-label to treat other conditions. Your online medical professional may prescribe it for the following reasons. It’s also possible that your healthcare provider may prescribe it for different reasons not listed here. Ask your online doctor or pharmacist if you have questions about why a medication is prescribed.
Allergy symptoms
Phenergan is prescribed to treat allergy symptoms, including runny nose, itching, sneezing, watery or itchy eyes, hives, and itchy skin rash.
It is suitable for people with allergic conditions such as perennial and seasonal allergic rhinitis, allergic conjunctivitis due to inhalants of foods and allergens, and other allergic reactions.
Phenergan treats allergic reactions by blocking the effects of histamine in the body. Histamine is the chemical that plays the main role in the pathogenesis of allergic reactions.Nausea and vomiting due to certain conditions
Phenergan can be an antiemetic that treats nausea and vomiting related to certain conditions. These include motion sickness and before and after surgery. It works by blocking histamine receptors in the brain that can cause nausea and vomiting.
When histamine binds to these receptors, it acts on the body’s reflex to induce nausea and vomiting. However, Phenergan binds to these receptors instead of histamine, preventing nausea and vomiting.Insomnia
Phenergan can be prescribed as a short-term treatment for insomnia. This medicine can promote relaxation and act as a sedative to help you sleep. It is usually taken 20 minutes before going to bed and takes around 30 minutes to work.
Pain after surgery
Phenergan tablets can help treat pain after surgery. It works by changing the actions of some chemicals in the brain. The mechanism of action is the same as for other uses; Phenergan blocks histamine. This particular chemical can also contribute to pain.
What are the pros and cons?
Phenergan
Cons
May cause excessive sleepiness
Not recommended for elderly patients
Severe respiratory side effects may occur in children
Phenergan side effects
The side effects associated with taking Phenergan are typically mild to moderate. Most Phenergan side effects are associated with drowsiness. Phenergan has some common side effects. They may include:
Drowsiness and/or dizziness
Double vision
Ringing in the ears
Dry mouth
Tiredness and sleep problems
Nervousness
Restlessness or confusion
Weight gain
Trouble having an orgasm
Swelling in hands or feet
Other side effects, which are less common but might be more severe, could include:Fainting
Slow heartbeat
Mental or mood changes such as hallucinations
Unusual or uncontrolled muscle movements such as a fixed upward stare, tongue movements, and neck twisting
Shaking or tremors
Difficulty urinating
Easy bleeding or bruising
Severe abdominal pain
Severe dizziness
Signs of infection
Persistent nausea and/or vomiting
Yellowing of eyes and skin
Difficulty breathing
Seizures
Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) is indicated by fever, muscle pain/stiffness/weakness, severe confusion and tiredness, sweating, dark urine, fast heartbeat, and signs of kidney problems
Allergic reactions
You should tell your doctor if you notice any of these side effects or if you develop any other new or concerning symptoms. Use of Phenergan in young children under age 2 is not advised because it can cause fatal respiratory depression.
How to take Phenergan
Your doctor or pharmacist will provide you with instructions on how to take your Phenergan prescription.
Be sure to read your prescription label, and patient information leaflet, and follow the instructions. Call your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
Phenergan can come in different forms and doses, so be sure to follow the specific instructions on your prescription. It is typically prescribed once or twice a day, depending on the type of use.
Some specific instructions may include taking Phenergan within one hour before traveling, to prevent motion sickness. An average adult dose is 25mg twice a day in most cases.
When used for allergies, patients may need to take Phenergan once a day, e.g., before bedtime, to avoid drowsiness during the day. If necessary, patients can take medicine once before meals and at bedtime.
When used for surgery, Phenergan is usually taken the night before or right before the procedure.
What to avoid while taking Phenergan
Phenergan has 667 drug interactions. It interacts with CNS depressants, cold or allergy medicines, narcotic pain medicines, sedatives, muscle relaxers, sleeping pills, antidepressants such as monoamine oxidase inhibitors, anti-anxiety medications, anticonvulsants, and other drugs.
Don’t change what you are taking without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. That includes other medications or supplements and herbal medicines, as well as over-the-counter drugs.
It is important to adhere to the doctor’s instructions when taking Phenergan. Avoid getting up too quickly from a sitting or lying position, or you may have dizziness. You may also want to avoid driving or operating with heavy machinery.
Ask your doctor or pharmacist if it is acceptable to drink alcohol while taking Phenergan.
Some research shows that drinking alcohol regularly may cause very serious side effects of this medication. Alcohol may also reduce the medication’s ability to do its job, making it harder for Phenergan to treat allergies or nausea and vomiting.
Avoid exposure to tanning beds and sunlight. Phenergan could make it easy to get sunburns.
Medication alternatives to Phenergan
If your healthcare provider prefers to put you on another treatment, they may suggest another phenothiazine or an antihistamine in another drug class. Here are some common doctor-recommended alternatives based on your health issue:
Allergy symptoms
Zyrtec (Cetirizine)
Clarinex (desloratadine)
Allegra (Fexofenadine)Alavert (Loratadine)
Xyzal (Levocetirizine)
Insomnia
Benadryl (diphenhydramine)
Nausea and vomiting due to certain conditions
Phenergan prescription FAQs
How much does Phenergan cost?
The cost of promethazine tablets depends on the pharmacy. The price for one tablet is around $10 meaning 10 tablets could cost over $100. Many programs can help you save money when buying Phenergan.
How can I refill my Phenergan prescription?
You can refill your Phenergan prescription by scheduling an appointment to see a doctor who can order the refill. An easy and convenient option is to see one of our board-certified doctors online for a refill. Following a qualifying evaluation, the doctor will prescribe Phenergan or order a refill, which can then be picked up at your local pharmacy.
Who should not take Phenergan?
People who exhibit allergic reactions to promethazine or similar medications shouldn’t use Phenergan. Also, you shouldn’t take this medicine if you have asthma or lower respiratory tract infections. Otherwise, it could lead to fatal respiratory depression.
Persons with a history of seizures, a weak immune system (bone marrow depression), glaucoma, an enlarged prostate or problems with urination such as urinary retention, or stomach ulcers or obstructions may want to avoid Phenergan unless their doctor approves.
The same also applies to people with a history of heart disease, liver disease, pheochromocytoma (adrenal gland tumor), and hypocalcemia (low calcium levels).
People who drink alcohol shouldn't take Phenergan unless their doctor or pharmacist approves. The risk of adverse reactions is significantly higher if you drink alcohol.
If you are taking a monoamine oxidase inhibitor or some other medicines that interact with Phenergan, you shouldn't take this medication before consulting a doctor or pharmacist first.Is Phenergan for sleep addictive?
Phenergan for sleep is not addictive, but it is still used as a short-term treatment. You shouldn’t use it longer than it is prescribed.
How many times can you take Phenergan a day?
You can take Phenergan once or twice a day as directed by your doctor or pharmacist. The typical dosage of Phenergan is 25mg per day.
How long do you sleep after taking Phenergan?
Phenergan may work for four to six hours. It takes 30 minutes to work, and patients need to take it around 20 minutes before going to bed.
What happens if I miss a dose of Phenergan?
If you miss a dose of Phenergan, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, you must skip the missed dose if it’s almost time for the usual dose. Don’t take a double dose of Phenergan to compensate for the missed dose.
What happens if I take too much Phenergan?
If you take too much Phenergan, immediately call your doctor or the Poison Helpline and seek emergency medical attention. This is particularly important if you experience symptoms of overdose. These include loss of coordination, overactive reflexes, severe weakness or drowsiness, dilated pupils, fainting, shallow breathing, and seizures. It is important to take the usual dose of Phenergan and stick to the dosage schedule to avoid potentially dangerous adverse reactions.
3 simple steps to request your Phenergan prescription today
Step 1
Book a Phenergan prescription request appointment.
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Step 2
Talk to your medical provider regarding your Phenergan prescription.
Visit a doctor on your smartphone or computer.
Step 3
Pick up your Phenergan prescription.
We can send prescriptions to any local pharmacy.
Phenergan prescription pricing details
How pricing works
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First month free
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30 days of free membership
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Free memberships for your family
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Visit price without insurance
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Phenergan prescription resources
Sources:
PlushCare is dedicated to providing you with accurate and trustworthy health information.
National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Promethazine." U.S. National Library of Medicine, National Center for Biotechnology Information, Bookshelf, Accessed Oct. 9, 2023, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK544361/.
"Phenergan Uses, Dosage & Side Effects." Drugs.com, Drugs.com, Accessed Oct. 9, 2023, https://www.drugs.com/phenergan.html#uses.
"Phenergan 25mg Tablets." Datapharm, Electronic Medicines Compendium (EMC), Accessed Oct. 9, 2023, https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/5588/pil#gref.
PlushCare content is reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, nutritionists, and other healthcare professionals. Learn more about our editorial standards and meet the medical team. The PlushCare site or any linked materials are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice, nor is the information a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment.